Europe IS a TAPESTRY of Food, Art, Inspiration, Travel and - well - there’s always a little Humor when traveling!
One of my best friends from college called to tell me about something on her “bucket list” and invited me to join. The answer was, of course, YES! Heck yes!
Our first stop is Amsterdam.
It's been a minute (43 years) since I've wandered the canals and soaked in the diversity of culture. Dare I say that experiences of my youth will not be the same or repeated 43 years later! No details needed other than rolling my eyes! Looking forward to loads of inspiration rediscovering the layers of history that the city has to offer mingled with modern charm.
Next we are off via train for the main event on Denises’ bucket list, Andre Rieu’s summer concert in his hometown of Maastricht. The venue is held at the Vrijthof, a picturesque square in the center of the city. After watching YouTube videos, my description goes something like this: philharmonic Johann Strauss orchestra meets a Broadway production meets opera meets waltzes meets popular tunes and often times audience participation. We will dance in the aisles!
Denise opted in for the VIP whole sha-bang, including day tours, back stage access, front row seats with white linen, candelabras, wine, food and world class music!!
Sidebar:
We took an American Musical Theatre class together in college at Tulane and “studying” for this class included spinning many LP’s of her parents of showtunes, Vaudeville and beyond AND singing… loudly!! So there! Yes, we will sing and yes I bet we will dance. Videos for sure!
Italy is always calling! La Dolce Vita for 5 days in Florence promises to not disappoint!
Fun Fact: I attended Studio Art Center international 1981-82 after college. This was my first introduction to Italian culture and so much more that truly changed my life... especially my friendship with the founder of the school and artist extraordinaire, Jules Maidoff.
Sadly, this will be the first time in Florence that won’t include quality time with Jules, who almost made it to 92 years old. His uncensored imagination & ever flowing chatter about art will be a void for me this trip.
Thrilled to be hosted by Denise’s friends in Sicily to round off our adventures. From the tip of the boot to Taormina for a region of Italy that I’ve not explored. And the best part is that I don’t have to plan a thing!! They will be our tour guides.
The essence of each element of F.A.I.T.H. will enrich my journey AND spark vibrant new impressions that will certainly make their way to my canvas! So jazzed!
Ciao tutti!